Kingston (Massachusetts) Public Library
When the US entered World War I in 1917 and called for a draft, Joseph Finney registered during the first round. He became one of approximately 2 million men who joined the American Expeditionary Forces, armed forces sent overseas to Europe. Throughout his service he exchanged postcards with friends and family, especially his elder sister, Ella Finney, and the woman he went on to marry upon his return, Mary Fries. Looking through this correspondence allows us to piece together a loose timeline of his experiences. Stop by the library to check out this exhibit for yourself!
Source: Image from the Joseph Cushman Finney Papers (MC11).
Happy first day of fall! In celebration of the occasion, check out this postcard from around 1915. The message on the back reads: “We need you on Rally Day. Remember the date: October 29. Do not disappoint. Help us make this our best Rally Day. Cordially yours, Grace W. Cobb”. The postcard was not mailed, and the text was pre-printed, except for the date and the signature, which were written in.
Source: This image is from the Joseph Cushman Finney Papers (MC11).
From the fabulous Finney postcards comes this touching glimpse of two mischievous vandals and their squirrel sidekick pranking Santa while he naps.
For more Christmas goodness from the Local History Room , see here and here.
Source: Joseph Cushman Finney Papers MC11
For more, visit the Kingston Public Library, and the Local History Room, and the full blog at piqueoftheweek.wordpress.com.
From the always entertaining Joseph Finney Collection.
A rosy-cheeked couple merrily skip along, both dressed in green. She wears a large bonnet, a green empire-waisted gown and dainty black boots. He sports a traditional leprechaun outfit with a green jacket, bow tie and top hat, accessorized with a walking stick and high spats.
